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Confidence doesn't come naturally to everyone. It's something that has to be built up over time. Through successive accomplishments and positive feedback, a person might be able to garner a lot of confidence. Sadly, however, some experiences don't end well, and the wrong criticism can go a long way to unraveling the trust in yourself that you worked hard to build.

But are there strategies for you to rebuild that confidence through your personal and professional life that anyone can use? Fifteen experts from Forbes Coaches Council think so. Below, they offer their insight into the topic and explain why the methods they suggest can be useful in a wide variety of situations.

Forbes Coaches Council experts discuss ways of building your self-confidence at work and in life.

Photos courtesy of the individual members.

1. Build A ‘History Of Success’

I have coached a number of executives who struggle in some way with self-esteem and self-confidence, which is a critical component of the emotional intelligence framework. My top tip is to build a "history of success." List all of your accomplishments, skills, etc. Make it large and comprehensive. Then reflect on it, and ask, "If I can do all of that, what is to keep me from doing what's next?" - Patrick Jinks, The Jinks Perspective

2. Work With Your ‘Inner Critic’

Stop criticizing yourself. Try approving of yourself for a change and see what happens. Remember the inner critic's job is to protect you from making mistakes. And its voice is not a reflection of reality, but rather a viewpoint that has been adopted based on some life experiences that have been internalized as your own point of view. To get what you want in life, you must believe in it. - Kasia Jamroz, Conscious Leading Solutions L.L.C.

My greatest growth and achievement has come from getting out of my comfort zone and trying something new, whether it's in my personal or professional life. I have failed as often as I've succeeded in reaching my goal. But the best part is the growth that comes from the discomfort. It makes me confident that I can and should keep trying. I know in my heart that the only failure is not to try. - Lisa Walsh, Bridgepath Career Advisors, LLC

4. Unveil Your Superpowers

As a society we tend to focus on what we don't do well and spend time beating ourselves up or trying to overcome the deficiency. As a result, we not only fail to see our "superpowers"—meaning, our strengths, gifts and natural talents—but we also fail to spend time cultivating and leaning into them. When you can acknowledge and even celebrate all that you are and have to offer, your confidence will grow. - Carol Parker Walsh, Carol Parker Walsh Consulting, LLC

5. Understand The Components Of Confidence

"Confidence" is a vague, squishy term. We are all confident in some areas of our lives and not so much in others. Look at how well you are doing on the components of confidence (e.g. articulating a viewpoint, knowing your strengths, speaking to groups, having clear goals) personally and professionally. Select one or two areas to focus on and engage in behaviors to boost confidence in those areas. - Tim Ressmeyer, Ressmeyer Partners

6. Find A Personal Mantra

Find a personal mantra that creates confidence. It should be one sentence that creates an instant feeling of confidence. If the mantra, also called positive reaffirmation, is repeated regularly, it will create new pathways in the brain and become as equally strong of a belief as the assumptions that undermine confidence. - Katharina Schmidt, Inspiration & Discipline

7. Make Subtle Changes In Your Word Choice

Verbal cues shape the way we see our world. When you make subtle shifts in your word choice, you can boost your confidence and elevate how others see you. Try these simple replacements that signal power: from "Am I being clear?" to "Do you have any questions?" or "Is there anything I can clarify for you?", and from "Does that make sense?" to "What are your thoughts?" or "Do you have any questions?" - Lisa Zigarmi, The Consciousness Project, LLC

8. Create A Growth Mindset Audit

Confidence is a mindset based on self-concept, self-efficacy, self-esteem and self-regard. Deliberately focus on building these weekly. Ask yourself each day, "What are three things I am grateful for? Three tasks or talents I appreciate that I demonstrated? What are three things I learned from mistakes made? What are three thoughts I challenged myself on?" - Dr. Denise Trudeau-Poskas, Blue Egg Leadership

9. Learn Skills In Different Environments

To build your confidence in new skills and managing challenging situations, find situations where you practice in a safe environment. If you volunteer—as a coach, in a nonprofit or in a local government role—you will have the chance to take on responsibilities, learn new skills and manage through different situations. Everyone will appreciate your contributions and you will build confidence. - Stephen Ford, Fitzgerald, Stevens & Ford, Inc.

10. Manage Your Anxiety First

Anxiety kills confidence, so manage your anxiety first. When we are nervous, our breath is shallow and rapid. Start by taking a few slow, deep breaths. It will reduce the release of stress hormones and activate your parasympathetic nervous system to calm you down. Also, stand tall and straight. Research has shown that not only will it convey power to others, but you will also feel more confident in yourself. - Orly Maravankin Ph.D., PCC, Edge Consulting, Inc

11. Hit The Gym

One of the best ways to ooze confidence is with your presence and body language. And people who work out and do physical exercise tend to walk taller, have better posture and a stronger stride. So get the endorphins going by visiting the gym, taking a fitness class or cycling and/or walking in the fresh air. This will do wonders for your personal presence and inner confidence. - Gabriella Goddard, Brainsparker Leadership Academy

12. Work On Leadership Skills

Skills such as listening with intention, recognizing one’s biases, asking powerful questions, holding critical conversations and establishing open, honest and direct communication will give you the confidence to interact with others authentically. These skills need to be worked on and practiced in daily life. - Aaron Levy, Raise The Bar

13. Increase Your Gut Intelligence

Nothing builds confidence more than when we listen to that gut alert that tells us it's time to quiet our minds, detach from activity and listen to our inner voice before we speak or do anything. Increasing our gut intelligence this way helps us respond to situations instead of reacting, so we can align our decisions to our vision, values and goals in a clear, calm and confident way. - Susan K. Wehrley, BIZremedies

14. Commit To A Higher Purpose

Confidence comes from a deeply rooted belief that we're here for a higher purpose and working toward fulfilling that purpose every day. Money, titles, accolades—all great, but don't create a deep enough foundation for confidence. Personal and professional confidence comes from true self-awareness, which comes from knowing your purpose. Find that, live it daily and you'll always be confident. - Miranda VonFricken, Miranda VonFricken Mastermind Coaching

15. Go To Events, Talk To Successful People

The best confidence booster comes from meeting smart, successful people and building relationships with them. Ask them lots of questions. Take notes. Learn to listen. Stop talking about yourself. Find creative ways to solve their biggest challenges and they'll reward you for doing so. Sharpen your presentation skills. Learn how to influence. Thousands of free videos on YouTube will show you the way. - Mike Koenigs, MikeKoenigs.com

Forbes Coaches Council is an invitation-only, fee-based organization comprised of leading business coaches and career coaches. Find out if you qualify at Forbes Councils.…

Forbes Coaches Council is an invitation-only, fee-based organization comprised of leading business coaches and career coaches. Find out if you qualify at Forbes Councils. Questions about an article? Email feedback@forbescouncils.com.